Reading Time: 3 minutesSkerry cruisers are lightweight, sensitive boats popular in calm waters like the Swedish archipelago. The classic 40-foot models of the early 20th century excelled in light winds, while the 1970s cruising version prioritized comfort, affecting sailing performance. Comparisons of key metrics highlight the differences in sailing capability between the classic and modern designs.
Reading Time: 8 minutesThe article discusses the often-overlooked importance of storm jibs in boating, critiquing standard literature for lacking specific recommendations. It highlights the need for robust sail design tailored for high winds, emphasizing experience-based insights on sail sizes and performance. The author shares their journey in optimizing storm jibs for safe sailing conditions.
Reading Time: 6 minutesSkerry cruisers like the Gamle Swede are lightweight yet capable of handling strong winds, requiring early reefing. The article details the boat’s performance during the 2009 Schlank & Rank Regatta, emphasizing the effectiveness of its storm jib and sail configurations in rough conditions, while also discussing equipment upgrades and maintenance.
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe S30, a family-friendly cruising sailboat launched in the early 1970s, combines affordability with low maintenance. Constructed mainly from fiberglass, it has gained popularity across the globe due to its durability. Many owners have customized their S30s with teak decks and enhancements, appealing to both new and experienced sailors alike.
Reading Time: 5 minutesThe Swede 55 is a robust fiberglass production boat built by Fisksätra Varv in the 1970s. Featuring a solid laminated hull and a four-shell construction, it includes various reinforcements for strength. Despite its durability, the boat is heavier than initially intended, impacting its speed and performance in rough seas.
Reading Time: 8 minutes→ Artikel auf Deutsch This website focused on beautiful yachts has been around for a while. Occasionally, I am asked what kind of boat I am sailing. So I am taking the liberty to introduce Gamle Swede: Daysailer, cruiser, occasional racer, floating retreat and boat office. Some day, she may be for sale: in case an experienced and care taking …
Reading Time: 4 minutes→ Artikel auf Deutsch This 68 footer was developed by Håkan Södergren in 2008 as a taller sister of Swede 55. At first sight it is the same boat, just bigger, due to the sailor’s saying. Actually, the Swede 68 is nearly 16 feet (4.80 metres) longer and nearly 4.6 feet (1.40 m) wider. It would come with a raised …
Reading Time: 4 minutes→ Artikel auf Deutsch The story of this Swede 55 successor reveals, what can be done with a tiller-steered 52-footer, racing the south and west coasts of England, including the Fastnet Race or along the Côte d’Azur. Universal Hartbeat is steered like a dinghy with a tiller extension instead of a wheel. Almost all the crew is sitting on the …
Reading Time: 3 minutes→ Artikel auf Deutsch This is the story of a well-travelled, then neglected Swede 55. Follow her wake from Fisksätra Varv in Västervik on the east coast of Sweden to the island of Guernsey, where her first German owner sold her. She went on via southern France to Antigua, crossed the Atlantic several times in American and British ownership, sailed …
Reading Time: 2 minutes→ Artikel auf Deutsch All data of Swede 55 obtained from brochures and own measurements aboard Gamle Swede: hull dimensions, weight, rig dimensions, nominal sail area and actual sail sizes. Cabin heights, tank capacities, engine and transmission, various international ratings/racing certificates. This information has been compiled from Gamle Swede and other Swede 55 over the past decades. This is just …
